Use of Antimicrobial Silver Coatings on Fixed Orthodontic Appliances, Including Archwires, Brackets, and Microimplants: A Systematic Review.

Orthodontic treatments, while essential for achieving optimal oral health, present challenges in infection control due to the propensity for bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation on orthodontic appliances. Silver-coated orthodontic materials have emerged as a promising solution, leveraging the potent antimicrobial properties of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Antibacterial coatings are used in orthodontics to prevent the formation of bacterial biofilms. This systematic review evaluated the literature on antimicrobial silver coatings on fixed orthodontic appliances, including archwires, brackets, and microimplants. Two evaluators, working independently, rigorously conducted a comprehensive search of various databases, including PubMed, PubMed Central, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science. This systematic review comprehensively examined in vitro studies investigating the antimicrobial efficacy of silver-coated orthodontic archwires, brackets, and microimplants. The review registered in PROSPERO CRD42024509189 synthesized findings from 18 diverse studies, revealing consistent and significant reductions in bacterial adhesion, biofilm formation, and colony counts with the incorporation of AgNPs. Key studies demonstrated the effectiveness of silver-coated archwires and brackets against common oral bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus. Microimplants coated with AgNPs also exhibited notable antimicrobial activity against a range of microorganisms. The systematic review revealed potential mechanisms underlying these antimicrobial effects, highlighted implications for infection prevention in orthodontic practice, and suggested future research avenues. Despite some study heterogeneity and limitations, the collective evidence supports the potential of silver-coated orthodontic materials in mitigating bacterial complications, emphasizing their relevance in advancing infection control measures in orthodontics.

In-vivo assessment of application of folinic acid and botulinum toxin A in cleft lip surgical defects.

INTRODUCTION: Folinic acid and botulinum toxin A have shown promising results in wound healing in different studies. This study aimed to compare the effects of these approaches on wound healing after simulating cleft lip surgery in rats. METHODS: In this experimental animal study, after creating lip defects, 30 rats were randomly divided into three groups and received normal saline (CTL), botulinum toxin A (BOT), and folinic acid (FOL). Biopsy from the skin wounds was performed after 14- and 28-days. These samples were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and Masson trichrome staining. Finally, each pathological parameter of wound healing was rated in this study. RESULTS: While the inflammatory response was not different among the study groups, fibroblast proliferation and collagen deposition were significantly higher in FOL group compared to BOT group. Moreover, both BOT and FOL facilitated epithelial healing and 14-day angiogenesis as compared with normal saline. CONCLUSIONS: Improved wound healing was observed using both botulinum toxin A and folinic acid in rat animal models. However, the application of botulinum toxin A caused less fibroblast proliferation and collagen deposition which can potentially lead to less scar formation, which can be particularly important in the aesthetic zone.

Micro-computed tomographic analysis of the morphology of maxillary lateral incisors.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the morphology of maxillary lateral incisors (MxLI) using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The root canal configurations (RCC) of maxillary lateral incisors (MxLI) of a mixed Swiss-German population were examined using micro-CT, 3D imaging, and a 4-digit system code indicating the main root canal from coronal to apical thirds and the main foramina number. RESULTS: The most frequently observed RCC of MxLI were 1-1-1/1 (Vertucci I/Ve I, 80.0%), 1-1-2/2 (Ve V, 7.3%), 1-2-1/1 (Ve III, 6.4%), 2-1-1/1 (Ve II, 1.8%), and 1-1-1/2 (1.8%)(n = 110). Three additional RCC were observed less frequently (0.9%). The MxLI showed one physiological foramen in 89.1%, two in 9.1%, and seldom three (1.8%). Most accessory canals were identified in the apical third of a root (20.0%), and no accessory canals in 72.7% of the samples. CONCLUSIONS: Detailed information on the internal morphology of MxLI of a Swiss-German population is given. The most frequently observed RCC of MxLI is 1-1-1/1 (Ve I). However, accessory canals may occur in all apical thirds, and 20% of all teeth investigated showed a challenging RCC for clinical treatment. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study offers clinicians comprehensive data on MxLI morphology, emphasizing the significance of understanding varied RCC and accessory canal presence for improving root canal treatment outcomes. Over 25% of teeth exhibited complex RCC or accessory canals, influencing decisions during root canal treatment.

Do metal artifact reduction algorithms influence the detection of implant-related injuries to the inferior alveolar canal in CBCT images?

BACKGROUND: The routine application of dental implants for replacing missing teeth has revolutionized restorative and prosthetic dentistry. However, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) evaluations of structures adjacent to the implants are limited by metal artifacts. There are several methods for reducing metal artifacts, but this remains a challenging task. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of metal artifact reduction (MAR) algorithms in identifying injuries of implants to the inferior alveolar canal in CBCT images. METHOD: In this in vitro study, mono-cortical bone windows were created and the inferior alveolar canal was revealed. Using 36 implants, pilot drill and penetration damage of the implant tip into the canal was simulated and compared to the control implants with distance from the canal. CBCT images were evaluated by four experienced observers with and without the MAR algorithm and compared to direct vision as the gold standard. The values of accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity were obtained and compared by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (α = 0.05). RESULT: The area under the ROC curve values for detection of pilot drill injuries varied between 0.840-0.917 and 0.639-0.854 in the active and inactive MAR conditions, respectively. The increase in ROC area was only significant for one of the observers (P = 0.010). For diagnosing penetrative injuries, the area under the ROC curve values was between 0.990-1.000 and 0.722-1.000 in the active and inactive MAR conditions, respectively. The improvement of ROC curve values in active MAR mode was only significant for one of the observers (P = 0.006). CONCLUSION: Activation of MAR improved the diagnostic values of CBCT images in detecting both types of implant-related injuries to the inferior alveolar canal. However, for most observers, this increase was not statistically significant.

Evaluating the effect of using anti-stress balls as a distraction technique in reducing pain during inferior alveolar nerve block injection: a randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of using anti-stress balls in reducing patients' pain during injection of the inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this randomized clinical trial, 32 individuals were divided into two groups. The conventional method of anesthesia injection was performed using IANB conventional injection technique. During the injection, individuals in the anti-stress ball group were asked to use the anti-stress ball as a distraction technique. For the control group, no supersede methods were used for pain control. Finally, both groups were asked to record their pain utilizing the numerical rating scale (NRS). The participants' vital signs were monitored before and after injection. Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, independent T-test, and Fisher's exact chi-square test were performed for statistical analysis (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Sixteen females and 16 males in the age range of 40 to 20 years old participated in this study. The mean pain score in the anti-stress ball group was significantly lower (p < 0.001). In both sexes, the pain score in the anti-stress ball group was significantly lower (males p < 0.001 and females p = 0.001). In addition, in all age ranges, the pain score in the control group was higher except for the above 35 years old participants (p = 0.078). Moreover, there were no significant differences in individuals' vital signs (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Utilizing an anti-stress ball reduces patients' pain significantly during IANB in both sexes and individuals who are below 35 years without changing vital signs. CLINICAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: IRCT20220815055704N1.

Plasma Exosomal microRNA Profile Reveals miRNA 148a-3p Downregulation in the Mucosal-Dominant Variant of Pemphigus Vulgaris.

The mucosal-dominant variant of pemphigus vulgaris (MPV) is an autoimmune disease characterized by oral mucosal blistering and circulating pathogenic IgG antibodies against desmoglein 3 (Dsg3), resulting in life-threatening bullae and erosion formation. Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as promising players in the diagnosis and prognosis of several pathological states. For the first time, we have identified a different expression profile of miRNAs isolated from plasma-derived exosomes (P-EVs) of MPV patients positive for antibodies against Dsg3 (Dsg3-positive) compared to healthy controls. Moreover, a dysregulated miRNA profile was confirmed in MPV tissue biopsies. In particular, a strong downregulation of the miR-148a-3p expression level in P-EVs of MPV patients compared to healthy controls was demonstrated. Bioinformatics prediction analysis identifies metalloproteinase-7 (MMP7) as a potential miR-148a-3p target. An in vitro acantholysis model revealed that the miR-148a-3p expression level was dramatically downregulated after treatment with Dsg3 autoantibodies, with a concomitant increase in MMP7 expression. The increased expression of MMP7 leads to the disruption of intercellular and/or extracellular matrix adhesion in an in vitro cellular model of MPV, with subsequent cell dissociation. Overexpression of miR-148a-3p prevented cell dissociation and regressed MMP7 upregulation. Our findings suggest a pivotal role of P-EV cargo in regulating molecular mechanisms involved in MPV pathogenesis and indicate them as potential MPV therapeutic targets.

Comparison of antimicrobial and wound-healing effects of silver nanoparticle and chlorhexidine mouthwashes: an in vivo study in rabbits.

The objective is to formulate a silver nanoparticle mouthwash and then evaluate its antimicrobial and wound-healing effects in rabbit animal models. Microbial samples were collected from the oral cavity of 60 rabbits. Thereafter, standardized wounds were created in the lateral border of the tongue on the right side for all rabbits. After surgery, digital photographs were obtained from the wounds with standardized settings. To characterize the silver nanoparticles used in the synthetic mouthwash, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and digital light scattering analysis were used. The animal models were then randomly divided into 4 groups: group 1 received 9.80 wt% silver nanoparticle mouthwash; group 2 received all the ingredients of the formulated mouthwash except for silver nanoparticles; group 3 received chlorhexidine 2.0% mouthwash; and the negative control group did not receive any postoperative mouthwash. Microbial samples were collected from oral cavity of the rabbits each day for four postoperative days. Colony-forming unit (CFU) counts were compared post-operatively with the pre-operative counts. In addition, standardized digital photographs were taken each day from the wounds and the area of the wounds was compared in postoperative and pre-operative images. Data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA and repeated measures variance analysis (α = 0.05). TEM revealed spherical morphology of silver nanoparticles and digital light scattering showed an average size of 5 nm and optimal distribution of the nanoparticles. CFU count significantly decreased in groups 1 and 3 (P < 0.001), while it significantly increased in groups 2 and 4 (P < 0.001). Moreover, a significant difference was observed between the experimental groups (P < 0.001). In addition, wound area decreased significantly in all groups (P < 0.001). However, the difference between wound areas in the groups was not significant, except for the 4th postoperative day (P < 0.001). However, the antibacterial effects and the wound-healing characteristics of the synthetic silver nanoparticle and chlorhexidine mouthwashes were not significantly different (P > 0.05). Silver nanoparticle mouthwash possesses favorable antibacterial and wound-healing effects. The formulated 9.80 wt% silver nanoparticle mouthwash with a particle size of 5 nm can be a promising alternative for application after oral surgical procedures.

Therapeutic and Metagenomic Potential of the Biomolecular Therapies against Periodontitis and the Oral Microbiome: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives.

The principles of periodontal therapy are based on the control of microbial pathogens and host factors that contribute to biofilm dysbiosis, with the aim of modulating the progression of periodontitis and periodontal tissue destruction. It is currently known how differently each individual responds to periodontal treatment, depending on both the bacterial subtypes that make up the dysbiotic biofilm and interindividual variations in the host inflammatory response. This has allowed the current variety of approaches for the management of periodontitis to be updated by defining the goals of target strategies, which consist of reducing the periodontopathogenic microbial flora and/or modulating the host-mediated response. Therefore, this review aims to update the current variety of approaches for the management of periodontitis based on recent target therapies. Recently, encouraging results have been obtained from several studies exploring the effects of some targeted therapies in the medium- and long-term. Among the most promising target therapies analyzed and explored in this review include: cell-based periodontal regeneration, mediators against bone resorption, emdogain (EMD), platelet-rich plasma, and growth factors. The reviewed evidence supports the hypothesis that the therapeutic combination of epigenetic modifications of periodontal tissues, interacting with the dysbiotic biofilm, is a key step in significantly reducing the development and progression of disease in periodontal patients and improving the therapeutic response of periodontal patients. However, although studies indicate promising results, these need to be further expanded and studied to truly realize the benefits that targeted therapies could bring in the treatment of periodontitis.

Impairment of the angiogenic process may contribute to lower success rate of root canal treatments in diabetes mellitus.

AIM: To investigate the association between root canal treatment outcome, diabetes mellitus, and alterations of the angiogenic process. METHODOLOGY: A retrospective observational study was conducted in healthy (control group, CG) and diabetic (type II diabetes mellitus group, DG) patients after root canal treatment. The follow-up appointments were performed to clinically and radiographically observe symptoms, the healing of periapical lesions and the quality of root fillings. In the animal model study, diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats and control Wistar rats were used. After 21 days of pulp exposure and the development of apical periodontitis (AP), the mandibles were removed for scintigraphic, radiographic, histopathological and molecular analyses. Chi-square tests were performed to examine the variables related to endodontic outcome and differences between animal groups were assessed using the Student's t-test. RESULTS: The group of patients with diabetes had a significantly lower rate of success following root canal treatment than the CG (p < .001). Logistic regression suggested that diabetes is a risk factor for success of root canal treatment. In the animal study, GK rats had significantly higher fasting glycaemia at t0 and t21 (p < .001) and triglycerides levels (p < .05) and area under the curve (AUC) during the insulin tolerance test at t21 (p < .001). AP area was significantly greater in GK rats (p < .05). Histologically, diabetic rats had increased signs of periodontal ligament inflammation 21 days after the induction of apical periodontitis, with fibro-hyaline matrix filling and vessel with undefined walls. Wistar rats had significantly increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels and VEGF/Ang-2 ratio 21 days after AP induction (p < .08; p < .07). GK rats had intrinsically lower levels of VEGF than control rats (p < .05), which did not change after AP. CONCLUSION: Diabetes mellitus should be considered as an important factor in the prognosis of root canal treatment and its outcomes over time. Future strategies to improve angiogenesis and tissue repair should be pursued to achieve better root canal treatment outcomes in diabetic patients.

Aberrant right coronary artery in a grown up congenital cardiac patient, successfully treated 46 years earlier with a double Starr-Edwards silastic ball valve replacement: a case report.

BACKGROUND: The Starr-Edwards ball valve prosthesis was successfully introduced in 1961-62 and largely used for aortic and mitral valve replacement. Even if Starr-Edwards valves have been widely replaced in clinical practice by other mechanical valves, they define a standard concerning long-term durability. CASE PRESENTATION: We describe the case of a 55-year-old man referred to our Department to perform a cardiac computed tomography (CCT), to better evaluate a severe dilation of ascending aorta discovered at echocardiography. The patient had been surgically treated 46 years earlier to correct a supra-cristal type ventricular septal defect. Both mitral and aortic valves were replaced, respectively due to bacterial mitral endocarditis and a fibrous sub-valvular aortic stenosis. In addition, the right coronary artery (RCA) was found to arise from the left coronary sinus. CONCLUSION: We report the longest lasting durability (46 years) of aortic and mitral Starr-Edwards valves successfully implanted in a patient simultaneously carrying a malignant anomalous origin of RCA.

Effect of Cavity Disinfectants on Dentin Bond Strength and Clinical Success of Composite Restorations-A Systematic Review of In Vitro, In Situ and Clinical Studies.

Cavity disinfection becomes an important step before a dental restorative procedure. The disinfection can be obtained cleaning the dental cavity with antimicrobial agents before the use of adhesive systems. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review on the effect of different cavity disinfectants on restorations' adhesion and clinical success. A search was carried out through the Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Web of Science. In vitro and in situ studies reporting results on dentin bond strength tests, and clinical studies published until August 2020, in English, Spanish and Portuguese were included. The methodological quality assessment of the clinical studies was carried out using the Revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. Chlorhexidine could preserve adhesion to dentin. EDTA and ethanol had positive results that should be further confirmed. Given the significant lack of scientific evidence, the use of lasers, fluoridated agents, sodium hypochlorite, or other products as cavity disinfectants should be avoided. Chlorhexidine is a safe option for cavity disinfection with adequate preservation of adhesion to dentin. Moreover, future researches should be focused on the efficacy of these disinfectants against cariogenic bacteria and their best application methods.

Periodontal Disease: A Risk Factor for Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease.

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease, initiated by the presence of a bacterial biofilm, called dental plaque, which affects both the periodontal ligaments and bone surrounding teeth. In the last decades, several lines of evidence have supported the existence of a relationship between periodontitis and systemic health. For instance, as periodontitis acts within the same chronic inflammatory model seen in cardiovascular disease (CVD), or other disorders, such as diabetes, several studies have suggested the existence of a bi-directional link between periodontal health and these pathologies. For instance, people with diabetes are more susceptible to infections and are more likely to suffer from periodontitis than people without this syndrome. Analogously, it is now evident that cardiac disorders are worsened by periodontitis, both experimentally and in humans. For all these reasons, it is very plausible that preventing periodontitis has an impact on the onset or progression of CVD and diabetes. On these grounds, in this review, we have provided an updated account on the current knowledge concerning periodontal disease and the adverse effects exerted on the cardiovascular system health and diabetes, informing readers on the most recent preclinical studies and epidemiological evidence.

Adipose Tissue as a Strategic Source of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Bone Regeneration: A Topical Review on the Most Promising Craniomaxillofacial Applications.

Bone regeneration in craniomaxillofacial surgery represents an issue that involves both surgical and aesthetic aspects. The most recent studies on bone tissue engineering involving adipose-derived stromal/stem cells (ASCs) have clearly demonstrated that such cells can play a crucial role in the treatment of craniomaxillofacial defects, given their strong commitment towards the osteogenic phenotype. A deeper knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying ASCs is crucial for a correct understanding of the potentialities of ASCs-based therapies in the most complex maxillofacial applications. In this topical review, we analyzed the molecular mechanisms of ASCs related to their support toward angiogenesis and osteogenesis, during bone regeneration. Moreover, we analyzed both case reports and clinical trials reporting the most promising clinical applications of ASCs in the treatment of craniomaxillofacial defects. Our study aimed to report the main molecular and clinical features shown by ASCs, used as a therapeutic support in bone engineering, as compared to the use of conventional autologous and allogeneic bone grafts.

Micro-computerized tomographic analysis of premolars restored with oval and circular posts.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of the study was to evaluate by micro-computerized tomography (microCT) areas and volumes of post, cement, and voids/bubbles in the post space of oval-shaped premolars restored either with oval or circular posts. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twelve extracted premolars were divided into two groups according to the drill-fiber post system used: (1) GC Fiber Post Drill + circular post GC Fiber Post; (2) Ellipson tip(TM) + oval post Ellipson post(TM). Each tooth was scanned using microCT, and areas and volumes of canal, post space, post, cement, and voids at coronal, medium, and apical level were calculated by using a three-dimensional visualization software. Two-way analyses of variance and Tukey tests were used for statistical analysis (p < 0.05). RESULTS: The area of voids was significantly greater at apical level of oval posts, but no difference was found between the levels among the groups. Regardless of post shape, the volume of voids and of cement was significantly higher at the coronal level. With oval posts, the total volume of cement was twice as much as with circular posts, and the difference was statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that the volume of voids does not depend on post shape. Moreover, the microCT analysis demonstrated that the volume of cement was greater with oval posts compared to circular posts. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The microCT analysis provided interesting information on voids distribution and on the ratio between post shape and cement thickness. These results might address the clinician in the reconstruction of teeth with fiber posts.

Assessment of Apical Pressures in Single and Joining Canals - An Ex Vivo Study Based on Computational Fluid Dynamic Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Computational fluid dynamic analysis (CFD) is claimed to be a reliable tool for analysing the fluid flow and the generated apical pressures in the simulated root canal. The current study aimed to analyse the apical pressures in extracted teeth with single and joining canals. METHODS: Forty-six freshly extracted teeth were collected for the present study. The power was set at 95%, with an effect size of 0.55 (1-ß=95%, α=0.05). Once the root canal anatomy was confirmed with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), they were divided into two groups: group I: mandibular second premolars with Vertucci type-I (n=23), and group II: maxillary second premolars with Vertucci type-II (n=23). The instrumentation of the specimens was carried out to a 0.04-taper using rotary instruments. A post-instrumentation CBCT was obtained, and computer-aided design models were obtained. The CFD simulations were then con- ducted with simulated 30-gauge side vented needles at 25, 50, and 75% short of the working length (WL). RESULTS: Group I recorded significantly (p<0.05) higher apical pressures at needle positions 25% short of the WL. However, no significant differences were elicited in the groups at other needle positions. CONCLUSION: Single canal specimens recorded higher apical pressures at needle positions 25% short of the WL. However, no differences were elicited between single and joining canals at higher needle positions.

Genotoxicity and Micronucleus Formation as a Result of Panoramic Radiography in Epithelial Cells of the Buccal Mucosa: A Cross-sectional Study in Adults.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the genetic effects of panoramic radiography on the epithelial cells of the buccal mucosa by examining the micronucleus formation in these cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, exfoliative cytology samples were prepared from the buccal mucosa of 36 patients immediately before and 10 days after panoramic radiography. The samples were prepared using liquid-based cytology with Papanicolaou staining. The slides were simultaneously evaluated by two expert pathologists and the ratio of the number of cells with micronuclei to the total number of cells on the slide was reported as a percentage. Data analysis was done using paired-samples T test, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and covariance analysis (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The study sample consisted of 24 (66.67%) males and 12 females (33.33%) with a mean (SD) age of 27.36 (8.19) years. The frequency of cells with micronucleus before and after panoramic radiography was not statistically different (p = 0.468). Additionally, the frequency of micronucleated cells was not correlated with age (p = 0.737) and sex (p = 0.211). CONCLUSION: Panoramic exposure slightly increased the frequency of cells with micronucleus in epithelial cells of the buccal mucosa. However, this increase was not statistically significant.

Evaluation of the effects of postprocessing settings in digital bitewing radiographs on proximal caries detection.

OBJECTIVE: Radiographs are an integral part of detecting proximal caries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of contrast, brightness, noise, sharpness, and γ adjustment of digital intraoral radiographs on the diagnosis of proximal caries. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this in vitro study, 40 extracted teeth including 20 premolars and 20 molars with enamel lesions (white spot or dentin discoloration seen through the enamel) were mounted together in groups of eight inside the skull. Bitewing radiographic images of each dental group were obtained by a photostimulable phosphor plate sensor with exposure conditions of 8 mA, 70 kV, and 0.2 s. The images were reconstructed by the built-in software and examined by two oral and maxillofacial radiologists in various settings of contrast, brightness, sharpness, noise, and γ. The teeth were then cut mesiodistally and the presence or absence of caries was confirmed by an oral and maxillofacial pathologist using a stereomicroscope. The data were then analyzed using the κ agreement coefficient, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy (α = .05). RESULTS: Adjustment of brightness and contrast led to higher diagnostic performance with an accuracy of 82.5% and 83.8 (for observers 1 and 2, respectively) and 82.5% (for both observers), respectively. Noise adjustment was the least helpful approach for diagnosis of proximal dental caries among other adjustments, with an accuracy of 78.8% and 77.5% for observers 1 and 2, respectively. CONCLUSION: Brightness and contrast setting was more efficient in improving the diagnostic potential of bitewing radiographs compared to other adjustments.

Electromyographic Assessment of Muscle Activity in Children Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment-A Systematic Review.

Background: Surface electromyography (sEMG) can provide an objective and quantitative image of the functional state of neuromuscular balance in the stomatognathic system. The objective of this systematic review is to examine current scientific evidence regarding the effects of orthodontic treatment on muscle electromyographic (EMG) activity in children. Methods: The search strategy included the PubMed, PubMed Central, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase databases. The inclusion criteria were studies assessing EMG muscle activity in children undergoing orthodontic treatment compared with untreated children. The Cochrane risk-of-bias tool (RoB2) and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) were used to evaluate the quality of the studies. The quality of evidence assessment was performed using GRADE analysis. The PRISMA diagram visually represented the search strategy, as well as screening and inclusion process. Results: The search strategy identified 540 potential articles. Fourteen papers met the inclusion criteria. Six studies were judged at a low risk of bias. The certainty of evidence was rated as moderate to low, according to the GRADE criteria. Studies showed alterations in EMG muscle activity in children undergoing orthodontic treatment. Conclusions: Orthodontic treatment appears to affect muscle activity in children undergoing orthodontic treatment. However, the quality of evidence is low and, therefore, it is not possible to definitively state this effect. Further long-term studies are needed to confirm the findings of this review. Study protocol number in PROSPERO database: CRD42023491005.

Laryngeal cartilage calcifications on lateral cephalometric radiographs.

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of age and gender on the incidence of calcification in laryngeal cartilage diagnosed on lateral cephalometric radiographs routinely taken for orthodontic diagnosis. The lateral cephalometric radiographs of 957 patients who met the study criteria were analyzed from among the 1000 lateral radiographs originally collected. The images were evaluated independently by two investigators. Given the dichotomous dependent variable (calcification or no calcification), a mixed logistic regression model was used to test how age and gender affected calcification. The effect of age and gender reliably determined the likelihood of laryngeal cartilage calcification. The greatest differences in the degree of calcification by gender were found at ages 20-25 years. The degree of calcification increased with age, reaching 100% in women at age 30 and in men at age 50. In women, the degree of calcification was higher than in men from the age of 13 years and levelled off at the age of 50 years. The interrater agreement was strong k = 0.97, z = 30.0, p < .001. Calcification can be detected by orthodontists trained in lateral cephalogram analysis and can be used as a screening or diagnostic tool to detect calcified areas in the larynx.

A Quantitative Evaluation of the Effectiveness of the Metal Artifact Reduction Algorithm in Cone Beam Computed Tomographic Images with Stainless Steel Orthodontic Brackets and Arch Wires: An Ex Vivo Study.

The presence of high-density and high-atomic number materials results in the generation of artifacts in cone beam computed tomographic (CBCT) images. To minimize artifacts in CBCT images, the metal artifact reduction (MAR) tool was developed. This study aims to quantitatively evaluate the effectiveness of the MAR algorithm in CBCT images of teeth with stainless steel orthodontic brackets with or without arch wires in buccal and lingual positions obtained using the Galileos Sirona CBCT scanner. In this in vitro study, 20 stainless steel brackets were attached to the maxillary dentition from the right second premolar to the left second premolar teeth of a human skull. In the first group, 10 brackets were bonded to the buccal surface, and in the second group, 10 brackets were bonded to the palatal surface of these teeth. CBCT scans were obtained for each group with or without orthodontic stainless steel wires using a Galileos Sirona CBCT scanner with exposure parameters of 85 kVp and 21 mAs. CBCT images were obtained two times with and two times without MAR activation. The DICOM format of the CBCT images was imported to ImageJ software (version 1.54), and the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) was calculated and compared for each bracket in 15 and 20 mm distances and 20, 40, and 90 degrees on each side. Statistical analysis was performed using the t test (α = 0.05). CNR values of different distances and different teeth were not significantly different between the two MAR modes (p > 0.05). MAR activation had a significant impact in increasing CNR and reducing artifacts only when brackets were in palatal (p = 0.03). In the other bracket and wire positions, the effect of the MAR algorithm on CNR was not significant (p > 0.05). In conclusion, MAR activation significantly increased CNR, but only when the brackets were in a palatal position. In the other bracket and wire positions, the effect of the MAR algorithm is not significant.